Roasted Tomatoes with Lemon and Thyme Dressing

Roasted tomatoes bring out a natural sweetness that, when paired with a bright lemon and thyme dressing, creates a dish full of flavor and depth. The roasting process enhances the tomatoes' richness, while the tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast. This recipe is simple to make and works perfectly as a side dish or a light appetizer. The fresh thyme not only enhances the flavor but also brings an aromatic note to the dish, making it a beautiful and delicious option for any meal.

Ingredients:

• Tomatoes – 6 medium (Roma or vine-ripened)
• Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
• Fresh thyme – 2 tablespoons, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
• Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – to taste
• Pepper – to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the tomatoes from sticking.

2. Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice them in half lengthwise and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tomatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of thyme over the tomatoes before roasting for extra flavor.

3. Roast the Tomatoes

Place the tomatoes in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly caramelized on the edges. The tomatoes should look juicy and tender, with a slight char on the top.

4. Make the Lemon and Thyme Dressing

While the tomatoes are roasting, prepare the lemon and thyme dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped thyme, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting the flavors to your liking.

5. Drizzle the Dressing

Once the tomatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Arrange the tomatoes on a serving dish and drizzle the lemon and thyme dressing generously over the top.

6. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the roasted tomatoes with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Serve warm as a side dish or light appetizer.

Serving Suggestions:

Roasted tomatoes with lemon and thyme dressing can be served as a side dish with roasted vegetables, grilled vegetables, or a simple pasta dish. They are also delicious served on toasted bread for a light bruschetta-style snack. You can pair them with grains like quinoa or couscous, or add them to a salad for a flavorful topping.

These tomatoes make a beautiful accompaniment to any main course and can also be served as part of a spread at a dinner party.

Tips for the Best Roasted Tomatoes:

• Tomato Varieties: While Roma tomatoes work well in this recipe, you can use any type of tomato you prefer. Vine-ripened tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, or heirloom varieties will all work, but adjust the roasting time based on the size of the tomatoes.

• Roasting Time: For slightly more caramelized tomatoes, you can roast them for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don't burn.

• Lemon Zest: Be sure to use fresh lemon zest to brighten the dish. The zest adds a layer of citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes.

Variations:

• Herb Substitutes: While thyme is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other herbs like fresh basil, oregano, or rosemary to create different flavor profiles.

• Cheesy Twist: For a richer dish, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes just before serving. The savory notes of the cheese will complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the tangy lemon dressing.

• Add Vegetables: If you want to bulk up the dish, try adding roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers alongside the tomatoes. The flavors will meld together beautifully in the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Roasted tomatoes with lemon and thyme dressing offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes is brought out by the roasting process, and the lemon-thyme dressing adds a refreshing brightness. This dish is easy to make, full of fresh flavors, and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you're looking for a side dish or a light appetizer, these roasted tomatoes are sure to impress.

Make-Ahead Tips:

This dish can be partially prepared ahead of time. You can roast the tomatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the tomatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle the fresh lemon and thyme dressing over the tomatoes just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion:

Roasted tomatoes with lemon and thyme dressing is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the rich sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the tangy brightness of lemon and the earthiness of thyme. It’s an easy and versatile recipe that works well as a side, appetizer, or part of a larger meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious balance of flavors in every bite!